7.12.2012

"Even though I live on the river and teach Retrobics Dance and
Fitness classes at The Rec Center,I love to come downtown to do my
shopping, lunching,and volunteering.I am originally from Baton Rouge,
Louisiana, and I understand the importance of preserving culture and
history. The Square is the center of the culture and history in this
community."

Married to her husband,John,who works for TVA, Pam
loves to bring their adult children to downtown Athens, after a day on
the river. According to Pam, one cannot find the same sort of unique
downtown experience anywhere else. Pam enjoys the sense of place and
belonging to the community that she feels in downtown Athens on ' The
Square.'

She says that her love for community is only made
larger by the passion she has witnessed in other volunteers with Spirit
of Athens. " I have met some wonderful people working with Spirit of
Athens. Having this challenge has given me fuller days when I get
homesick for my kids and my homestate of Louisiana. Right now,the
Organization Committee, is focused and working hard on the upcoming
Athens Grease Festival; and although this is the first year,we are
excited to see everyone having fun planning the Greek activities and the
Southern fried foods."

Pam credits Trisha Black- S.O.A Director
with keeping her challenged and engaged in the Spirit of Athens
projects. She enjoys the Organization Committee, which is tasked with
attracting volunteers and resources to SOA. "Working with Spirit of
Athens, I have been asked to write articles, choreograph dances, ask
people to be major sponsors of events, encourage volunteers, and help
set up a huge annual meeting and luncheon. I know that I am contributing
toward making my immediate community a better place to live," Pam says.

"Revitalizing a downtown district is important work. I encourage
everyone to get involved with Spirit of Athens, in order to see the
downtown lit up, literally and metaphorically."